I’ve created a bright, fresh appetizer made by threading cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and basil onto mini skewers, then drizzling them with olive oil and balsamic reduction. It’s a visually stunning and absolutely delicious bite-sized take on a classic Caprese salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this snack comes together in under 15 minutes. It brings vibrant summer flavors in each bite—sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Assembled on skewers, they look elegant on a platter and are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making them ideal for gatherings.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• Cherry tomatoes
• Mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra‑virgin olive oil
• Balsamic reduction
• Sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Mini bamboo skewers or toothpicks
directions
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I thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), and one mozzarella ball onto each skewer, alternating for that classic red‑white‑green look.
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I arrange them neatly on a serving platter.
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I drizzle each skewer with extra‑virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction.
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I finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Servings and timing
Makes about 24 skewers (per Pies By Paula).
Prep time: ≈ 15 minutes, Total time: ≈ 15 minutes.
Variations
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I sometimes substitute mini marinated mozzarella balls for extra flavor.
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I occasionally tuck a ribbon of prosciutto around the mozzarella for a savory twist.
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I love using heirloom cherry tomatoes for color variety.
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For a vegan version, I swap in plant‑based mozzarella or marinated tofu cubes.
storage/reheating
Storing leftovers: I keep extra skewers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within 24 hours—beyond that, basil may wilt and tomatoes might soften. They still taste fine but aren’t as fresh.
Freezing: Not recommended—freezing fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella compromises texture and color.
Reheating: These are served cold or at room temperature. If chilled, I let them sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving to bring out their flavors.
FAQs
Can I prepare Caprese Skewers ahead of time?
Yes—I can assemble skewers up to 4 hours in advance and store them covered in the fridge. I wait to drizzle olive oil and balsamic until just before serving so basil stays vibrant.
What’s the easiest way to make balsamic reduction?
I either purchase a ready-made balsamic reduction or simmer balsamic vinegar on low until it thickens into a syrup—letting it cool before drizzling. Either option works great.
How should I scale this recipe for a crowd?
It’s super easy to scale—just multiply quantities. Lining skewers across a large board or tray not only feeds many, but also looks stunning.
Are there dairy‑free or nut‑free options?
Absolutely—swap the mozzarella for vegan cheese or marinated tofu cubes for a dairy‑free version. The recipe is already nut‑free as written.
What’s the best way to keep basil fresh on the skewers?
I use smaller basil leaves or fold larger ones while skewering. I also drizzle only right before serving to avoid wilting. Fresher is definitely better.
Conclusion
I find these Caprese Skewers to be the perfect balance of fresh, flavorful, and visually appealing. They’re incredibly easy to make and elevate any gathering—from picnics to dinner parties. Once I’ve made them, everyone asks for more. I can’t recommend them enough as a go‑to appetizer or elegant snack!
Print
Caprese Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 skewers
Description
These vibrant, bite‑sized Caprese skewers feature juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mini mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves drizzled with olive oil and balsamic reduction—simple, elegant, and ready in about 15 minutes.
Ingredients
24 cherry tomatoes
12 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
24 fresh basil leaves
Extra‑virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Balsamic reduction, for drizzling
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Wash and pat dry the tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves. If basil leaves are large, fold them in half.
Thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball onto each mini skewer or toothpick, alternating for color and visual appeal.
Arrange the skewers on a serving platter in neat rows or a fun pattern.
Right before serving, drizzle generously with extra‑virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction.
Sprinkle lightly with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately so basil stays fresh and skewers look crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
